Austin Sports & Rec: The Best of Austin Outdoors

Run in the Motorola Marathon, the Capitol 10K, or any number of weekend races. Row on Lake Austin. Ride bikes with Lance Armstrong in the Run for the Roses. Golf on any of the area’s beautiful courses. Play basketball on a city court, or work out at one of the many gyms in the region. Whatever kind of jock you are, Austin is the place to be. Area spectators also enjoy life on the sidelines. The University of Texas at Austin (UT) is the centerpiece of Austin sports, and football is the centerpiece of UT sports. Longhorn fans come from across the state for UT football games, as well as basketball, baseball, volleyball, swimming and track. It’s all here in Austin!

Parks and Recreation

Home to seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong, Austin is a haven for cyclists, with a mild climate, rolling terrain and a network of diverse hike and bike trails fit for both mountain bikes and road cycles. The City of Austin employs staff bicycle program coordinators (974-7240) to improve safety and access on all cycle routes. Also, bike racks have been placed on many Capital Metro buses to accommodate cycling commuters.
Barton Creek Greenbelt Perhaps the most popular area trail for mountain bikers, this rugged patch of terrain stretches from Zilker Park to beyond Loop 360 and presents a challenge for novices and experienced bikers alike. Bull Creek is located here.
Emma Long Motocross Park (City Park) Both motocross bikes and mountain bikes are welcome at City Park, but all riders must be prepared for a strenuous trail that requires technical riding skills. At 1600 City Park Road, the terrain leads riders into steep drops and climbs on limestone ledges.